New book a step towards lobbying for African issues
THE launch of a book about China-Africa relations on the eve of the Forum on ChinaAfrica Co-operation (Focac) summit is a step in the right direction to lobby for Africa’s developmental issues that should form part of the goals at the end of the summit.
The two-day Focac summit starts today in Sandton. Titled Focac 2015: A New Beginning of China-Africa Relations, the 18chapter book was launched by the Human Sciences Research Council in conjunction with the People’s Republic of China in Pretoria yesterday.
In attendance were politicians, government officials, ambassadors and academics, who expressed the need to strengthen relations between China and Africa.
The book touched on the future of China-Africa co-operation in the context of the African Union’s 2063 objectives.
Garth Shelton, of Wits University, said the book was the culmination of the lobbying process on issues like the promotion of the role of women, which Focac would hopefully address during the summit.
He said the Chinese economy, which was anticipated to double its growth in future, would benefit the relationship between China and Africa.
Dr Essop Pahad, former minister in the presidency, said it was important to address the stereotypes and attitudes that threatened China-Africa relations. The book explored the role of China in Africa, like its peacekeeping efforts on the continent.
It was said that China had made great strides in terms of poverty reduction.
Ebrahim Ishmael Ebrahim, parliamentary counsellor to the Presidency, said over the last 20 years Africa had been able to develop with the help of China.
“China and South Africa are seeking a stronger voice on behalf of the developing countries,” he said.